California EV Rebate Eligibility Checker
Find out in 30 seconds if you qualify for California's $3,500 MyFirstEV rebate — and what to do if you don't.
Check Your Eligibility
Answer a few questions. No signup. Results appear instantly below.
Rebates you may qualify for
Estimated total potential savings ElectVehicles estimate — verify with dealer and CARB
Stackability guidance
Official application links
How eligibility works
First-time-owner rule
MyFirstEV is only for buyers who have never owned or leased a zero-emission vehicle (BEV, PHEV, or FCEV). Previous ownership disqualifies you — even if the prior vehicle was leased or sold.
New vehicle: $50,000 MSRP cap
New ZEVs must have an MSRP at or below $50,000. As long as the base trim is below the threshold, higher trims of the same model may also qualify. Rivian and Lucid are exempt because they are headquartered in California.
Used vehicle: $25,000 price cap and 2-year minimum age
Used ZEVs must be priced at or below $25,000 and be at least two model years old (for 2026, that means 2024 or older). Rebate amount is $1,750.
Vehicle type
Battery electric (BEV) and fuel-cell (FCEV) vehicles qualify. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) do not qualify for MyFirstEV.
Frequently asked questions
Do I qualify for California's $3,500 EV rebate if I owned a Prius?
A standard Prius is a hybrid, not a zero-emission vehicle, so it does not disqualify you — unless it was a Prius Prime (plug-in hybrid), which counts as a ZEV. If you previously owned or leased any BEV, PHEV, or FCEV, you do not qualify for MyFirstEV. You may still qualify for manufacturer or utility rebates.
Does leasing an EV disqualify me from MyFirstEV?
Yes. If you have previously leased a zero-emission vehicle, you are not a first-time owner under the program rules. The disqualification applies whether you purchased or leased.
Is the MSRP cap based on the base price or the total price?
CARB applies the $50,000 cap to the manufacturer's suggested retail price. As long as the base trim is below $50,000, higher trims of that same model may also qualify. Destination fees and dealer-installed accessories are typically not included, but dealers may interpret this differently. Verify with your dealer and the official CARB page.
Can I stack MyFirstEV with a manufacturer rebate?
CARB confirms MyFirstEV can be stacked with other CARB and non-CARB vehicle incentive programs. On new EVs, the $3,500 rebate stacks with home charger rebates, local incentives, and income-qualified programs like Clean Cars 4 All. However, exact stacking rules depend on the specific manufacturer and program terms. Ask your dealer to confirm in writing before you sign.
What if I don't qualify for MyFirstEV?
You may still qualify for manufacturer rebates (e.g., Lexus $2,500), utility rebates (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, LADWP pre-owned EV and charger rebates), and income-qualified programs (Clean Cars 4 All, DCAP). Check the alternatives section of this tool after you submit your info.
Is there an income limit for MyFirstEV?
No. MyFirstEV does not have an income cap. Income-qualified programs like Clean Cars 4 All and DCAP do have income limits, and they may be stackable in some cases.
Does the rebate apply at the dealership or do I apply later?
MyFirstEV is designed as an instant point-of-sale rebate. The dealer applies it directly to your purchase price. Not all dealers participate — confirm with your dealer before finalizing your purchase.
What documents do I need at the dealership?
You will typically need a valid California ID or driver's license, proof of California residency, and a signed attestation that you are a first-time ZEV owner. Some dealers may request additional documentation. Ask your dealer in advance.
Can I get a rebate on a used EV above $25,000?
Not from MyFirstEV. The used vehicle price cap is $25,000. Some utility pre-owned EV rebates may have different price caps, so check with your utility. Income-qualified programs may also apply.
What happens if MyFirstEV funding runs out?
MyFirstEV is funded on a first-come, first-served basis. If funding is exhausted, new applications may not be accepted until additional funding is allocated. Check the official CARB page for the current status before making a purchase decision.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides informational estimates only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Rebate eligibility rules are set by CARB, individual utilities, and automakers, and may change without notice. ElectVehicles is not affiliated with CARB, any utility company, or any automaker. Verify all figures with the dealer and the official program page before purchase. Actual savings may vary based on income, vehicle configuration, dealer participation, and program funding status.
California EV Rebate Eligibility Checker
Find out in 30 seconds if you qualify for California's $3,500 MyFirstEV rebate — and what to do if you don't.
Check Your Eligibility
Answer a few questions. No signup. Results appear instantly below.
Rebates you may qualify for
Estimated total potential savings ElectVehicles estimate — verify with dealer and CARB
Stackability guidance
Official application links
California EV Rebate Eligibility Checker: Do You Qualify for $3,500?
California launched the MyFirstEV instant rebate program in August 2026, offering $3,500 off new zero-emission vehicles and $1,750 off used ZEVs. The program is backed by $270 million in state funding and is designed to accelerate EV adoption among first-time buyers.
But there is a catch that thousands of shoppers are discovering at the dealership: if you have ever owned or leased an electric vehicle, plug-in hybrid, or fuel-cell vehicle, you are not eligible — regardless of income. And if the new vehicle you want exceeds $50,000 MSRP, you are also excluded, unless it is a Rivian or Lucid (both are exempt because they are headquartered in California).
This guide answers the three questions California EV shoppers are actually asking:
- Do I qualify for MyFirstEV?
- If not, what do I qualify for instead?
- How much can I stack from state, utility, and manufacturer rebates?
Use the California EV Rebate Eligibility Checker below to get a personalized verdict in under 60 seconds, then read on for the full rules, alternative rebates, and real-world scenarios.
Key Takeaways
- The MyFirstEV rebate is $3,500 for new ZEVs (MSRP ≤ $50,000) and $1,750 for used ZEVs (price ≤ $25,000 and at least two model years old).
- Prior ownership of any zero-emission vehicle disqualifies you — including leased vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and vehicles you no longer own.
- Rivian and Lucid are exempt from the $50,000 MSRP cap because they are headquartered in California.
- There is no income limit for MyFirstEV, but income-qualified programs like Clean Cars 4 All and DCAP have their own limits and may stack.
- Manufacturer rebates like the Lexus MyLexusEV $2,500 rebate have no first-time-owner restriction and no MSRP cap, making them valuable alternatives for excluded buyers.
- MyFirstEV is an instant point-of-sale rebate — the dealer applies it directly to your purchase price.
- Funding is first-come, first-served and may run out.
Check Your MyFirstEV Eligibility
Before visiting a dealership, use our California EV Rebate Eligibility Checker to find out:
- Whether you qualify for the $3,500 state rebate
- If ineligible, why (first-time-owner rule, MSRP cap, or vehicle type)
- Which manufacturer, utility, and income-qualified rebates you may qualify for instead
- An estimate of your total combined potential savings
The tool requires no signup, works on mobile, and returns instant results you can bring to the dealership.
How MyFirstEV Eligibility Works
Who Qualifies for the $3,500 New EV Rebate
You may qualify if all of the following apply:
- You are a California resident.
- You have never owned or leased a zero-emission vehicle (battery electric, plug-in hybrid, or fuel-cell).
- The vehicle is new and has an MSRP of $50,000 or less.
- The vehicle is a battery electric (BEV) or fuel-cell (FCEV) vehicle. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are not eligible.
- The vehicle is model year 2026 or newer.
- You are purchasing or leasing from a participating dealer.
Rivian and Lucid vehicles are exempt from the $50,000 MSRP cap because both automakers are headquartered in California.
Who Qualifies for the $1,750 Used EV Rebate
You may qualify if all of the following apply:
- You are a California resident.
- You have never owned or leased a zero-emission vehicle.
- The vehicle is used, priced at $25,000 or less.
- The vehicle is at least two model years old. For 2026 purchases, that means the vehicle must be a 2024 model year or older.
- You are purchasing through a manufacturer's certified pre-owned program.
The First-Time-Owner Requirement (The Most Common Disqualifier)
This is the rule that catches most shoppers by surprise. If you have ever owned or leased any zero-emission vehicle — including a plug-in hybrid — you are not eligible for MyFirstEV. The disqualification applies even if the prior vehicle was leased, sold, totaled, or returned at end of lease.
You will sign a CARB attestation at the dealership confirming that you are a first-time ZEV owner. Providing false information can result in clawback of the rebate and possible penalties.
The $50,000 MSRP Cap and the CA-Headquarters Exemption
CARB applies the $50,000 cap to the manufacturer's suggested retail price. As long as the base trim of a given model is priced below $50,000, higher trim levels of that same model may also qualify.
Destination fees and dealer-installed accessories are typically not counted toward the cap, but individual dealers may interpret this differently. Confirm with your dealer and the official CARB page before signing.
Vehicles Excluded from MyFirstEV
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)
- Vehicles ordered or purchased before a participating manufacturer launched its program
- Vehicles with a curb weight over 8,500 pounds (light-duty passenger vehicles only)
- Vehicles not registered in California
What to Do If You Don't Qualify for MyFirstEV
Most California EV shoppers who are excluded from MyFirstEV still have real rebate options. The state program is only one layer — manufacturer rebates, utility rebates, and income-qualified programs can still add up to thousands of dollars.
Manufacturer Rebates Without MyFirstEV Restrictions
Some manufacturers offer California-specific rebates that do not have the first-time-owner restriction or the MSRP cap. These are especially useful for buyers who previously owned an EV or are shopping for a vehicle above $50,000.
The Lexus MyLexusEV Rebate currently provides $2,500 toward a new Lexus EV with:
- No MSRP cap
- No first-time-owner requirement
- Compatibility with Lexus lease cash incentives (for example, $4,000 on the 2026 RZ, for up to $6,500 total savings)
Note that stacking with the state MyFirstEV program is not guaranteed — confirm with your dealer in writing. Program terms are time-limited and vary by month.
Utility Rebates: PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, and LADWP
Your ZIP code determines which utility territory you fall into. Each utility runs its own EV rebate programs, often including pre-owned EV rebates, home charger rebates, and income-qualified add-ons.
- PG&E (Northern and Central California): Pre-owned EV rebates in the $1,000–$4,000 range, plus home charger incentives
- SCE (Southern California, excluding SDG&E and LADWP territories): Pre-owned EV and charger rebates
- SDG&E (San Diego County): Pre-owned EV rebates and charger incentives
- LADWP (City of Los Angeles): EV and charger rebates
Utility territory boundaries can overlap (for example, parts of Santa Clara County are served by both PG&E and Silicon Valley Clean Energy). Confirm your specific utility with your bill before assuming a rebate applies.
Income-Qualified Programs: Clean Cars 4 All and DCAP
California runs two major income-qualified programs that can provide substantially larger assistance than MyFirstEV:
- Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A): Up to $12,000 for income-qualified buyers who scrap an older vehicle. Income limit is 300% of the Federal Poverty Level — currently $47,880 for a single person and $99,000 for a family of four (for applications submitted on or after July 1, 2026).
- Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP): Up to $12,000 for income-qualified buyers in disadvantaged communities and up to $10,000 for non-disadvantaged communities. Same income thresholds as CC4A.
These programs may not stack with each other, but they may stack with MyFirstEV in some cases. Confirm with each program administrator before purchase.
Stacking Multiple Rebates
CARB confirms that MyFirstEV can be stacked with other CARB and non-CARB vehicle incentive programs. On new EVs, the $3,500 rebate stacks with home charger rebates, local air district incentives, and income-qualified programs.
Exact combination rules vary by program. Always confirm stackability in writing with your dealer and each program administrator before signing.
MyFirstEV vs Manufacturer Rebates: Side-by-Side
| Feature | MyFirstEV (State) | Lexus MyLexusEV |
|---|---|---|
| Rebate amount | $3,500 new / $1,750 used | $2,500 |
| First-time-owner requirement | Yes | No |
| MSRP cap | $50,000 (Rivian/Lucid exempt) | None |
| Vehicle types | BEV, FCEV | Lexus EVs |
| Stackable with lease cash | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Stackable with state program | N/A | Not guaranteed — confirm |
| Program period | Until funds exhausted | Through September 2026 (may extend) |
Participating Automakers and Rollout Timeline
MyFirstEV launched with seven automakers in August 2026 and expanded in September. Additional brands are scheduled through late 2026.
| Launch Period | Automakers |
|---|---|
| August 2026 | Tesla, Hyundai, Lucid, Ford, Rivian, Chevrolet, Kia |
| September 2026 | Toyota/Lexus, Honda, Subaru |
| November 2026 | Mitsubishi |
| To be announced | Nissan, Volvo |
Not all dealers within a participating brand are enrolled in the program. Confirm dealer participation before visiting.
Real-World Scenarios
These four scenarios illustrate how the rules play out in practice.
Scenario 1 — First-Time Buyer, New EV Under $50,000
Inputs: ZIP 94103, no prior ZEV ownership, new vehicle, $42,000 price, purchase, Tesla.
Result: Eligible for the $3,500 MyFirstEV rebate. May also qualify for PG&E home charger rebates and, if income-eligible, Clean Cars 4 All or DCAP.
Scenario 2 — Previous EV Owner
Inputs: ZIP 90001, prior ZEV ownership, new vehicle, $55,000 price, purchase, Lexus.
Result: Ineligible for MyFirstEV for two reasons — prior ZEV ownership and price above the $50,000 cap. Eligible for the $2,500 Lexus MyLexusEV rebate, which can stack with $4,000 in Lexus lease cash on the 2026 RZ for up to $6,500 in total savings.
Scenario 3 — Vehicle Above $50,000 MSRP
Inputs: ZIP 92101, no prior ZEV ownership, new vehicle, $75,000 price, purchase, Rivian.
Result: Eligible for the $3,500 MyFirstEV rebate. Rivian is exempt from the $50,000 MSRP cap because it is headquartered in California. May also qualify for SDG&E rebates and income-qualified programs.
Scenario 4 — Used EV Buyer Under $25,000
Inputs: ZIP 94103, no prior ZEV ownership, used vehicle, $18,000 price, 2020 model year, purchase.
Result: Eligible for the $1,750 MyFirstEV rebate. The price is under $25,000 and the vehicle is more than two model years old. May also qualify for the PG&E pre-owned EV rebate, which ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 depending on income.
How to Apply at the Dealership
MyFirstEV is designed as an instant point-of-sale rebate. The dealer applies the $3,500 (or $1,750) directly to your purchase price — you do not wait for a check in the mail.
- Confirm the dealer participates in MyFirstEV. Not all dealers within a participating brand are enrolled.
- Bring a valid California driver's license or ID and proof of California residency.
- Sign the CARB attestation confirming you are a first-time ZEV owner.
- The rebate is applied instantly to the purchase price or capitalized cost reduction.
- If leasing, confirm whether manufacturer rebates can be stacked with the state rebate.
- Keep copies of all signed documents for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I qualify for California's $3,500 EV rebate if I owned a Prius?
A standard Prius is a hybrid, not a zero-emission vehicle, so it does not disqualify you. If your Prius was a Prius Prime (a plug-in hybrid), it counts as a ZEV and does disqualify you. In general, if you previously owned or leased any BEV, PHEV, or FCEV, you do not qualify for MyFirstEV. You may still qualify for manufacturer or utility rebates.
Does leasing an EV disqualify me from MyFirstEV?
Yes. If you have previously leased a zero-emission vehicle, you are not a first-time owner under the program rules. The disqualification applies whether you purchased or leased.
Is the MSRP cap based on the base price or the total price?
CARB applies the $50,000 cap to the manufacturer's suggested retail price. As long as the base trim is below $50,000, higher trims of that same model may also qualify. Destination fees and dealer-installed accessories are typically not included, but dealers may interpret this differently. Verify with your dealer and the official CARB page.
Can I stack MyFirstEV with a manufacturer rebate?
CARB confirms MyFirstEV can be stacked with other CARB and non-CARB vehicle incentive programs. On new EVs, the $3,500 rebate stacks with home charger rebates, local incentives, and income-qualified programs like Clean Cars 4 All. However, exact stacking rules depend on the manufacturer and program terms. Ask your dealer to confirm in writing before you sign.
What if I don't qualify for MyFirstEV?
You may still qualify for manufacturer rebates such as the Lexus MyLexusEV $2,500 rebate, utility rebates from PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, or LADWP, and income-qualified programs like Clean Cars 4 All and DCAP. Use the eligibility checker to see which alternatives apply to your situation.
Is there an income limit for MyFirstEV?
No. MyFirstEV does not have an income cap. Income-qualified programs like Clean Cars 4 All and DCAP do have income limits, and they may be stackable with MyFirstEV in some cases.
Does the rebate apply at the dealership or do I apply later?
MyFirstEV is designed as an instant point-of-sale rebate. The dealer applies it directly to your purchase price. Not all dealers participate — confirm with your dealer before finalizing your purchase.
What documents do I need at the dealership?
You will typically need a valid California ID or driver's license, proof of California residency, and a signed attestation that you are a first-time ZEV owner. Some dealers may request additional documentation. Ask your dealer in advance.
Can I get a rebate on a used EV above $25,000?
Not from MyFirstEV. The used vehicle price cap is $25,000. Some utility pre-owned EV rebates may have different price caps, so check with your utility. Income-qualified programs may also apply.
What happens if MyFirstEV funding runs out?
MyFirstEV is funded on a first-come, first-served basis. If funding is exhausted, new applications may not be accepted until additional funding is allocated. Check the official CARB page for the current status before making a purchase decision.
Can I combine MyFirstEV with the federal EV tax credit?
The federal Clean Vehicle Credit was terminated for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025. For most buyers in 2026, the federal credit no longer applies, which makes state and manufacturer rebates more important. Confirm current federal rules with the IRS or a tax professional.
Do Rivian and Lucid really bypass the $50,000 MSRP cap?
Yes. Both companies are headquartered in California, and the MyFirstEV program includes a headquarters exemption that allows their vehicles to qualify regardless of price. Confirm the specific model year and trim with your dealer, as program rules can change.
Common Mistakes California EV Buyers Make
- Assuming all dealers participate. Even within a participating brand, individual dealers must enroll separately.
- Confusing hybrid and plug-in hybrid. A standard hybrid (like a regular Prius) does not disqualify you. A plug-in hybrid (like a Prius Prime) does.
- Assuming leasing avoids the first-time-owner rule. Leasing a ZEV triggers the same disqualification as buying one.
- Forgetting that MSRP and out-the-door price differ. The cap applies to MSRP, not the total transaction price.
- Missing manufacturer rebates. Many buyers walk away from a dealership unaware that the automaker offers its own rebate with no first-time-owner restriction.
- Not checking utility territory. Two neighbors can be in different utility territories with different rebate programs.
- Waiting too long. Funding is first-come, first-served. Rebate programs can pause or end without notice.
Sources and Methodology
This guide uses the following official sources. Rules and rebate amounts can change without notice, so verify current details before purchase.
- CARB MyFirstEV official page: ww2.arb.ca.gov/myfirstev
- CARB MyFirstEV FAQ
- SB 168 (program authorizing legislation)
- PG&E EV Rebates: evrebates.pge.com
- SCE EV Rebates: sce.com
- SDG&E EV Rebates: evrebates.sdge.com
- LADWP Rebates: ladwp.com
- Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) stacking table
- CarsDirect reporting on the Lexus MyLexusEV rebate (September 2026)
Last updated: September 10, 2026
Related Tools and Guides
- California EV Charger Payback Calculator — get a personalized MyFirstEV verdict and alternative rebate list
- California EV Rebate Calculator — estimate combined savings from state, utility, and manufacturer programs
- California EV Home Charger Savings & Rebate Calculator — see how rebates affect the full cost of ownership
- Used EV Rebate California Guide — dedicated coverage of used EV incentives
- Manufacturer Rebate Comparison — compare automaker incentives by brand
- EV Charging Cost Calculator — estimate home and public charging costs
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Rebate eligibility rules are set by CARB, individual utilities, and automakers, and may change without notice. ElectVehicles is not affiliated with CARB, any utility, or any automaker. Verify all figures with the dealer and the official program page before purchase.
- California Air Resources Board (CARB) — Official MyFirstEV Program Launch
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) — Clean Vehicle Tax Credits
- U.S. Department of Energy — Alternative Fuels Data Center (EV Charging Standards)
- U.S. Department of Energy & EPA — FuelEconomy.gov Electric Vehicle Database
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) — EV Emissions Impact Research